Vatasavitri Pooja

The married women of the House perform the Vatasavitri Pooja for the long life of their husband. They pray goddess Savitri with the following Slokas JAGATHPOOJYE JAGANMAATHAHA SAVITRI PATHIDHAIVATHE | PADYA SAHA AVIYOGHAM MEY VATASTHE GURU THE NAMAHA

Vatasavitri Puja is a significant Hindu ritual observed by married women, primarily in the Indian states of Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Bihar, and Karnataka. This festival is dedicated to the worship of Savitri, the legendary wife of Satyavan, who is celebrated for her devotion and perseverance in bringing her husband back from the clutches of death.

Significance

The Vatasavitri Puja symbolizes marital devotion and is observed for the well-being and long life of husbands. The puja involves fasting and worshipping the banyan tree (Vat), which is considered sacred and represents the divine trinity of Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva.

Mythological Background

The legend of Savitri and Satyavan is from the Mahabharata. According to the tale, Savitri was a devoted wife who followed her husband Satyavan into the forest when he was foretold to die. When Yama, the god of death, took Satyavan’s soul, Savitri engaged in a relentless dialogue with him, ultimately impressing Yama with her devotion and wisdom, which led to the restoration of her husband's life.

Rituals and Practices

1. Fasting: Married women observe a day-long fast, abstaining from food and water.
2. Worship: Women perform rituals around a banyan tree, tying threads around its trunk and offering prayers, water, rice, flowers, and vermillion.
3. Puja Items: The puja involves various items like red thread, bangles, fruits, sweets, and a picture or idol of Savitri and Satyavan.
4. Reading of the Vrat Katha: The story of Savitri and Satyavan is read aloud, reinforcing the values of dedication and fidelity.
5. Breaking the Fast: The fast is usually broken after the evening puja, often with fruits and sweets.

Observance Date

The Vatasavitri Puja is observed on the Amavasya (new moon) of the Jyeshtha month in the Hindu calendar, which typically falls in May or June.

Regional Variations

While the core rituals remain consistent, some regional variations in the observance of the puja can be noted. For instance, in some areas, the puja might extend over three days, and specific local customs and traditions may be integrated into the celebrations.

The Vatasavitri Puja is not just a ritual but a celebration of the power of unwavering devotion and the sanctity of marriage, resonating deeply with cultural and spiritual values.